Canada
February 10, 2026
Algoma Steel supplies Davie shipbuilders with plate for Polar Max program
Written by Kristen DiLandro
Plate production for the construction of the Polar Max Icebreaker is underway at Algoma’s Sault Ste. Marie facility in Ontario.
According to Davie, the shipbuilding enterprise responsible for manufacturing the vessels, Algoma will deliver plates to its Lévis, Quebec, shipbuilding site.
Davie said it’s committed to choosing Canadian-made steel to strengthen the country’s shipbuilding supply chain.
“Working with Algoma puts Canadian steel at the heart of Davie’s shipbuilding capability, strengthening the shipbuilding ecosystem and supporting skilled jobs in Québec and Ontario,” said Davie’s CEO James Davies.
Algoma Steel CEO Rajat Marwah affirmed the company’s support for the project. He underscored Algoma’s alignment with the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and the recently announced Buy Canadian Policy rolled out by the Canadian government in response to US trade policies under President Trump.
“Algoma Steel is proud to supply Canadian-made steel for programs that matter to Canadians including shipbuilding and defense. This partnership supports skilled jobs in Ontario and strengthens the industrial foundation Canada needs to build and maintain critical assets for the future,” Marwah stated.
In March 2025, Canada awarded Davie the Polar Max project. The program advances innovation in conventional heavy icebreakers. The icebreaker design enhances the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability to safeguard the Arctic year-round.
Davie, Algoma Steel, Stigterstaal Canada, and the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi partnered for the Polar Max program in 2022.
On Jan. 26, Algoma announced that it signed a binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the South Korea–based shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean.
The MoU outlines a long-term production agreement. Hanwha Ocean agreed to use Algoma’s steel if awarded the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP).
The total value of the engagement between Algoma and Hanwha Ocean is up to CA$345 million (~$250 million).
